Wild Turkey
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Galliformes, Family: Phasianidae, Genus: Meleagris, Species: Meleagris gallopavo · Phasianidae (Pheasants, Grouse, and Turkeys) · Contour (Body feather from the breast or flank)
Species
Meleagris gallopavo
Feather Type
Contour (Body feather from the breast or flank)
Family
Phasianidae (Pheasants, Grouse, and Turkeys)
Shape
Broadly rounded and spatulate; relatively symmetrical with a squared distal tip.
Size
Approximately 5.5 cm (2.2 inches) in length and 2.5 cm in width, consistent with smaller contour feathers from a female or juvenile.
Rarity
Very Common; populations have successfully rebounded across the Midwest, including Indiana.
Color & Pattern
Predominantly dark charcoal to brownish-black. The tip displays a distinct dark subterminal band with a very slight iridescent sheen visible under direct light. The base transitions into a lighter grayish-down.
Barb Structure
Mixed structure with plumulaceous (downy) barbs at the base for insulation and pennaceous (firmly interlocked) barbs at the tip for protection.
Texture & Surface
The distal tip is relatively stiff and smooth, while the proximal half is extremely soft, downy, and flexible. The surface has a slight matte finish.
Description
This is a contour feather from the Wild Turkey, a large ground-dwelling bird known for its heavy body and fan-shaped tail. Mature males (toms) have iridescent bronze-green plumage, while females (hens) are more drab brown to provide camouflage while nesting. This specific feather likely came from the breast or flank of a bird, where such feathers overlap like shingles to protect against moisture and cold.
Key Features
Rounded/squared tip with dark pigmentation, dense downy base, and a relatively thick rachis for its size. Lack of white barring distinguishes it from turkey wing feathers.
Habitat
Mixed deciduous and coniferous forests with open clearings, agricultural fields, and wooded swamps.
Geographic Range
Resident throughout North America from southern Canada through the United States to central Mexico. Non-migratory.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good; shows some separation of the barbs (venting) along the edges, likely due to natural wear or environmental exposure after being molted.
Interesting Facts
Wild Turkeys were nearly extinct in the early 20th century but are now one of the greatest success stories of wildlife management. Benjamin Franklin famously praised the turkey as a 'respectable bird' compared to the Bald Eagle.
Ecological Role
Generalist omnivores that consume seeds, insects, and mast (acorns). They serve as prey for large predators and act as important seed dispersers.
Similar Species
Canada Goose (feathers are more elongated and lack the squared tip), Ruffed Grouse (smaller with different patterning), or domestic dark poultry.
Notes
Lafayette, IN